I've been using one of those keypad locks without Wi-Fi for about two years now, and honestly, it's been a lifesaver. We had a big storm last summer that knocked out power for almost two days, and the keypad worked flawlessly throughout. No Wi-Fi needed, just batteries. I do keep a spare physical key hidden too—tech is great until it isn't—but I've never actually had to use it yet.
Funny enough, my only lock-out experience was before switching to the keypad. Came home late after a long day, phone battery dead (so no smart lock app), and realized I'd lent my spare key to my sister earlier that week. Ended up sitting on my porch for an hour waiting for her to drive over with it... lesson learned.
Anyway, the keypad feels like a nice middle ground between old-school keys and full-on smart locks. No Wi-Fi glitches, no apps to fuss with, just punch in the code and you're good. Plus, you can easily change codes if you need to give temporary access to someone—super handy when I had contractors coming in and out during renovations.
But yeah, whatever system you go with, having some kind of physical backup is always a good idea. Tech has a funny way of failing exactly when you least expect it...
I've thought about switching to keypad, but honestly, the battery thing makes me nervous. Knowing my luck, they'd die exactly when I'm in a rush... Is battery replacement easy (and cheap)? Or am I overthinking it?
"Knowing my luck, they'd die exactly when I'm in a rush..."
Haha, yep, that's exactly how it goes. Honestly though, battery swaps are pretty straightforward—usually just regular AA batteries every 6-12 months. But trust me, you'll still procrastinate until it beeps at you daily... ask me how I know.
Honestly, even with the beeping reminders, I still manage to forget. I've started keeping a spare physical key hidden outside—old-school backup never fails me. Tech's great until it isn't, right?
Haha, totally get where you're coming from—tech can be a lifesaver until it decides to glitch out. Have you thought about maybe placing the spare key somewhere less obvious, though? I've seen some pretty clever hiding spots during remodels... fake sprinkler heads, hollowed-out bricks, even behind a loose siding panel. Might give you a bit more peace of mind, you know? Either way, you're definitely not alone in this struggle.
